WCSO Charges Man With 4 Counts Of Animal Cruelty

Incident: Animal Cruelty
Date of Incident: 12 March 2009
Location: 25000 block of Elzey Brown Loop, Mardela Springs, MD
Suspect: Terrell Duane Strawberry, 29, Mardela Springs, MD

Narrative: On 17 December 2008, the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into animal cruelty occurring at the residence of Terrell Strawberry in the 25000 block of Elzey Brown Loop in Mardela Springs. While at the scene, deputies were joined by representatives of the Wicomico County Humane Society and together they observed evidence of several maltreated dogs. They observed several dogs that appeared emaciated due to malnutrition along with four dogs that had open wounds. All of the dogs were secured by heavy chains. Upon further checking of the premises, they located a deceased dog that had apparently been left there unattended.

The dogs were seized by the humane society and the one deceased dog was sent for a necropsy. Upon receiving the result of the necropsy it appeared the deceased dog died as a result of malnutrition and a general lack of care.

On 10 March 2009, the investigating deputy obtained a warrant for the arrest of Terrell Strawberry, charging him with multiple counts of Animal Cruelty. On 12 March 2009, a deputy located Strawberry and placed him under arrest. Strawberry was transported to the Central Booking Unit where he was processed and taken in front of the District Court Commissioner. After an initial appearance, Strawberry was released by the Commissioner on Personal recognizance.

Charges: Animal Cruelty – 4 counts
Animal Cruelty / Cause deprivation of necessary sustenance – 4 counts
Animal Cruelty/ Inflict Unnecessary Pain or Suffering – 4 counts
Animal Cruelty / Failure Provide Food and Water – 4 counts
Animal Cruelty / Dog in Unsafe or Unsanitary Conditions outside – 4 counts